It was a glorious weekend at the Attenborough Arboretum in Leicester for our latest Master Gardener recruits’ induction course and, as ever, a thoroughly enjoyable day in which our recruits shared experiences, knowledge and laughter as well as learning about their new role as food growing mentors.

We always recruit the most generous of gardeners, who can’t help but inspire others with their love of growing and of sharing that love with others. On Saturday we heard stories of how they have already been supporting family, friends and neighbours, spreading a love of growing and of good food as well as bringing people together to enjoy the fruits of their labour. We explored new possibilities of spreading this good work further through the Master Gardener programme, working with food banks, care homes and local communities and connecting with other keen gardeners to open new avenues and share ideas and learning together.

We look forward to watching this great bunch of gardeners grow into their new role and to hearing how their infectious enthusiasm helps their fiends, neighbours and others grow with them in the coming months.